Harvey Elliott: Ideal Liverpool Transfer Outcome After £35m Deal Cancelled

Liverpool's young star Harvey Elliott faces an uncertain future after a disappointing loan spell at Aston Villa was cut short, paving the way for a surprise transfer twist that could benefit all parties. The 22-year-old midfielder, once tipped for a permanent £35m move to Villa under Unai Emery, has been sidelined, with the manager revealing a brutal decision made months ago to exclude him from plans[1]. Elliott made just five appearances for the West Midlands club since his season-long loan in September, leaving him stranded and ineligible for another European team this season after featuring for both Liverpool and Villa[1][2].

Arne Slot, Liverpool's manager, praised Elliott's talent upon his departure, noting his overlooked contributions during last season's Premier League title win alongside stars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. However, Slot confirmed no recall option exists, directing questions to Villa, who are thriving without the former Fulham academy product[1]. Reports indicate a £35m permanent deal is now off the table, cancelled amid Elliott's minimal impact and Emery's early verdict[1].

Football Insider sources reveal Liverpool is furious over Villa's treatment of their loanee, with ex-Man United scout Mick Brown claiming Elliott is "closing in on a transfer" back to Merseyside before heading to Major League Soccer (MLS)[2]. Charlotte FC has shown interest, though Elliott is reportedly not considering it yet. Brown, a recruitment expert, insists an MLS move—potentially for six months—is ideal for regular minutes, calling it "the only way" given his fringe role at Liverpool and England international ambitions[2].

This outcome represents the perfect scenario for Liverpool: offloading a peripheral player without recall complications, allowing Elliott to rebuild form abroad. While a "real shame" for his talent, it sets up a stronger summer return or European move. Elliott's versatility shines, but Villa's rejection has forced this pragmatic path forward[1][2].

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